“Bicycle riders on public roads have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists and are subject to the same rules and regulations. Motorists must look carefully for bicyclists before turning left or right, merging into bicycle lanes and opening doors next to moving traffic. Respect the right of way of bicyclists because they are entitled to share the road with you.”

That quotation is taken directly from the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

Why is it that people think they have the right to police cyclists? It is not their job to do so. It is only their job, as motorists, to look out for bikes, share the road and respect the cyclists’ right of way.

Do these people also hold the same amount of contempt and disrespect for the Alexandria Police Department’s bicycle division officers, who I have witnessed occasionally not coming to a full stop at stop signs in Old Town just like other cyclists? It’s doubtful.- Leighton BrownAlexandria